Classy Girls
The Lumineers
The Gentle Art of Class: A Night Out with a Twist
The Lumineers' song "Classy Girls" tells a charming and somewhat humorous story of a night out that takes an unexpected turn. The narrative begins with the protagonist meeting a girl in a bar. Their interaction is light-hearted and filled with playful banter, as she hands him a beer with a kangaroo on it and talks about her travels. They share a moment of connection, slow dancing to fast tunes, and he even shows her his half-dollar ring, trying to impress her. However, when he makes a move to kiss her, she gently rebuffs him, stating, "classy girls don't kiss in bars, you fool."
As the night progresses and the bar crowd thins out, the protagonist feels a stronger pull towards her. He attempts to kiss her again, only to be met with a polite but firm refusal. She explains that it's not about him doing anything wrong; it's simply a matter of principle. The refrain, "classy girls don't kiss in bars like this," underscores her stance on maintaining a certain level of decorum and self-respect, even in casual social settings.
The song captures the essence of a fleeting yet meaningful encounter, highlighting themes of respect, self-control, and the subtle complexities of social interactions. The protagonist learns a valuable lesson about the boundaries some people set for themselves and the importance of respecting those boundaries. The Lumineers' folk-inspired sound and storytelling prowess make this song a delightful exploration of modern-day chivalry and the nuances of romantic pursuits.